Age-related Changes of the Zygomatic Ligament: An Experimental Animal Study.

Ligaments appeared thinner, transparent, more elastic and less robust in young animals, whereas ligaments in mature animals appeared thicker, more fascia-like, less elastic, and more robust. An increase in the type I/III collagen ratio, indicating greater stiffness and reduced elasticity, was observed with higher age of the investigated animals. These findings could indicate that ligaments might increase in stiffness and rigidity at higher age.